Putting the "room" in "vroom": Practical fun in the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

When About.com’s Guide to Cars Aaron Gold took a spin in the all-new Jetta GLI at our recent Full-Line Dynamic Drive event, he was blown away. “I think it’s absolutely fantastic,” he gushed. “This is everything that I expect from the GLI.” In addition to the ample legroom and back seat space, the new GLI boasts independent rear suspension for a “markedly different feel” when on the road. It also features VW’s award-winning 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, complete with 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. Aaron adds, “It’s very quick, it’s a lot of fun to drive, it’s got a really nice ride and a high quality interior.”

As a dad, Aaron loves that the Jetta GLI doesn’t feel like a compromise. Because it’s so roomy, it works great for drivers with families (or lots of friends who prefer riding to driving), but also has performance-inspired features like available18” sport wheels with red brake calipers, XDS cross differential to help prevent inside wheel spin during cornering, red contrast stitching on the seats and the same flat-bottomed steering wheel found in the Golf R and GTI. Yes, it will fit your friends and family, but you’ll get where you’re going in style (and possibly in record time).